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Kids say

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A lot or a little?

The parents' guide to what's in this app.

Ease of Play

Joining the Band is easy. Just pick a song, an instrument, a difficulty level, and start tapping. Songs ramp up nicely, building skill and confidence. You'll know you've missed a note by onscreen meters and clever audio cues such as the drum stick hitting the rim with a metallic clang.

Violence

Sex

Some innuendo in old rock faves but nothing that would be considered obscene.

Language

Some classic rock contains profanity but not on the level of most rap.

Consumerism

Players can download additional songs for 99 cents a pop.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this rhythm game lets kids "play" in a virtual rock band a la Guitar Hero by tapping on the screen as notes pass over a target. Kids can try out their licks on guitar, bass, drums, or vocals. The songs, classic rock mixed in with some newer stuff, have pretty tame lyrics. The option to play alone or jam with friends over Wi-fi or Facebook means kids aren't overly exposed to online strangers.

Is it any good?

Ah, the life of a rock star. Screaming fans, light shows, and then there's the music. All that's missing from Rock Band are drugs and groupies, making this an excellent game for kids. It comes with a nice starting selection of 15 songs featuring mainstays such as Joan Jett and George Thorogood mixed in with more recent groups such as No Doubt. The graphics are rocking as well, with a lush, swirly 80s-poster vibe and a tap area fringed by smoky crowd scenes and band member closeups.

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